The Engraver Joseph Tourny

The Engraver Joseph Tourny is an etching on laid paper created by Edgar Degas between 1857 and 1869. This specific impression is designated as a third printing, notable for the skillful use of surface tone. This technical element involves deliberately leaving a thin film of ink on the plate when wiping, which creates rich, atmospheric shadow effects, lending depth and gravity to the composition. The varied dating suggests that Degas returned to the copper plate repeatedly over several years, refining the lines and atmosphere of the image.

The subject of this intimate portrait is Joseph Tourny (1824-1880), a professional engraver who served as a mentor to the young artist during his formative years in Paris. Degas frequently experimented with portraiture, often focusing on colleagues, family, and friends rather than commissioned clients. This early example showcases the artist’s prolific engagement with graphic media, highlighting his developing skill in manipulating the etching needle to capture the psychological nuance of his male sitter. The successful manipulation of light and shadow elevates the resulting portrait beyond a mere likeness.

This work serves as a vital document of Degas's technical experimentation during a crucial decade in 19th-century French art. As an important example of the artist’s output, the piece resides in the collections of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. High-resolution digital files of such significant historical prints are often made available through museum initiatives, placing culturally important artwork in the public domain for study and appreciation worldwide.